When most people think about solar energy, they picture rows of gleaming panels soaking up the sun or perhaps a homeowner proudly showing off a reduced electricity bill. For Edward Chye, Founder of EDCA Energy, solar represents something much bigger.
34 JULY/AUGUST 2026
34 JULY/AUGUST 2026 TOTAL "We've always believed good workmanship is our strongest marketing tool," he says. "When customers see the quality of our work, they recommend us to their neighbours, relatives and friends." working closely with Tropicana, EDCA has integrated solar solutions into new residential developments offering homeowners the choice to customise the number of solar panels based on their household's energy consumption That philosophy has helped EDCA Energy expand rapidly, particularly into the residential market. As electricity tariffs continue to rise and government incentives make solar more attractive, homeowners are increasingly viewing rooftop solar as a long-term investment rather than a luxury. The company has also worked closely with developers such as Tropicana to integrate solar solutions into new residential developments. Rather than offering a fixed package, homeowners can customise the number of solar panels based on their household's actual energy consumption. "Every family uses electricity differently," Edward explains. "Our approach gives homeowners the flexibility to choose a solution that suits their lifestyle." Yet Edward believes the future of renewable energy extends well beyond rooftop panels. Battery Energy Storage Systems are rapidly emerging as the next frontier, particularly for commercial and industrial users seeking greater energy resilience. By storing excess electricity generated during the day, batteries allow businesses to reduce peak demand charges while providing backup power when needed. For regions such as Sabah and Sarawak, where electricity supply can sometimes be inconsistent, battery technology could become an essential solution. "It's about more than generating electricity," Edward says. "It's about making energy available whenever people need it." Beyond operational savings, solar is also becoming an increasingly important ESG strategy for businesses. As more manufacturers export to international markets, particularly Europe, sustainability credentials have become a commercial necessity rather than a corporate aspiration. "Many companies now need stronger ESG credentials, and solar is one of the quickest and most effective ways to achieve that," he explains. Recognising that upfront investment can sometimes be a barrier, EDCA Energy also offers innovative financing models that allow businesses to install solar systems without major capital expenditure—making clean energy accessible to a wider range of organisations.
TROPICANA LIFESTYLE 35 Many companies now need stronger ESG credentials, and solar is one of the quickest and most effective ways to achieve that
